Universal Audio Ampex ATR-102 Mastering Tape Recorder Standard

The Universal Audio Ampex ATR-102 mastering tape recorder plug-in and LUNA extension provides the authentic analog warmth your recordings have been missing. Fully authenticated by Ampex Corporation, this emulation puts the colorful saturation, rich harmonics and coveted "glue" of the iconic ATR-102 tape machine at your fingertips. Whether mixing or mastering, you'll transform your digital tracks into a cohesive work of art.

A Vintage Machine for the Modern Age

With auto-gain, you can adjust repro or record levels while maintaining perfect gain staging—a delicate art that once demanded precision. The retina-enhanced GUI gives you an interactive, true-to-original experience with spinning reels and familiar controls. From subtle tape compression to all-out saturation, you have full access to the tones behind countless classic albums.

A Deep Dive into Tape Tone

Choose from three tape heads (1/4", 1/2" and 1") and famous tape stocks (GP9, 456, 900) to craft your signature sound. Adjust tape speed, frequency emphasis and machine calibration to open up headroom or achieve grittier compression. Presets from industry veterans provide a launching point to season to taste. The results will infuse your music with the richness, depth and cohesion only possible through reel-to-reel recording.

Transform Your Mixes in LUNA

The ATR-102 LUNA Extension lets you work with real-time Ampex processing directly in LUNA's mixer. Without managing separate plug-in windows, you can saturate your tracks and busses with the full sonic imprint of this mastering legend. The dynamics, frequency response and harmonics are indistinguishable from the hallowed original.

Find Your Sound Fast

Ignite your creativity with presets from longtime ATR-102 devotees like Chuck Ainlay, Richard Dodd, Buddy Miller and Mike Poole. Their go-to settings provide an authentic starting point to craft album-ready tone with the inimitable richness of Ampex tape. Whether you need subtle enhancement or in-your-face attitude, the ATR-102 gives you a direct line to the iconic sounds behind decades of chart-topping records.